I caught a Harley convertible windshield for a song three years ago on ebay. I have no idea how old it was when I got it, but it had obviously been around the block a few times. I have put almost 30,000 miles on it. Now I am noticing crack lines radiating out from a couple of the bolts where the plastic mounts to the chrome cross members. I'm thinking that maybe all the flexing finally wears them out. Anyone have any experience with this? Is it dangerous?

 

I would guess that they would wear out. They are just plastic and they catch the brunt of the wind forces. So, in the world according to the Chief, it just makes sense...

 

I can't comment about the cracking, my FLHS windshield is 14 years old and the only signs of wear are a couple small gouges caused by stones. There are a few areas of slight discoloration, but aren't really that noticeable. I've taken the whole thing apart a couple of times for cleaning,although that's a bit of overkill. IIRC, the last time Ichecked on a replacement from the dealership it was around $140. Ibelieve there are better prices fromRifle and others.

 

Once upon a timeI worked for a plastics company. You can buyplexiglass material in bulk. Then just use the old windshield as a pattern and cut a new one. I've never done it but I don't think it would be that much of a task.

 

Not sure but I'm pretty sure they are not plexi but are lexon instead.

 

Yeah, you're right. My bad !! (you can also buy lexan at plastic places)

 

JC Whitney has replacement windshields made by Maier, the company H-D uses and they are roughly half price. Lots of new replacements are on eBay from time to time. I got a Memphis Shades replacement for my RK that included blue tinted bottom half for under $100 delivered.

 

If exposed to sunlight constantly,this will "wear" them out faster.

 

The Convertible windshield is KNOW for developing cracks. That detachable windshield from HD dates back to the 1980's and was one of the first of detactchable anything. You did have to carry the little allen wrench though in order to remove it from the bike. There was never a recall or service bulletin for that windshield. HD has been aware of that problem for along time.

Most dump that windshield...including myself for more current windshields. The second generation and current generation winshields from HD are much improved over the Convertible's model. Even the aftermarket has better windshields than the Convertible. No more having to carry the allen wrench to remove that OLD windshield.

 

Replace it! The minute you do, you'll be asking yourself why you didn't do it last year!